The Metropolitian Police have begun a murder investigation after twenty-year-old Jamie Gilbey from Crystal Palace is thought to have ‘come to harm’.
He was last seen on January 27 and was also wanted by the force in connection with a number of robbery offences.
Officers on patrol in South Norwood Country Park in Croydon on Sunday morning (27 February) discovered a number of suspicious items and put a crime scene in place shortly after.
The items found at the scene were promptly sent for further analysis, while detectives await further information.
No arrests have been made at this stage.
The Met had previously appealed for information about Jamie’s whereabouts last month in a missing person appeal.
Jamie’s family have been informed of the weekend’s events and are being supported by specially trained officers as the investigation takes place.
Police remain in the area of Love Lane and continue to conduct searches.
“My officers remain on scene and [are] providing a visible presence in the area for some days to come,” said chief superintendent Dave Stringer.
“I urge any members of the public who have any concerns, or information that could help us bring Jamie’s family justice, to approach those officers and speak to them.”
Detective inspector Melanie Pressley said: “We fully recognise this news and the police presence in the park will cause considerable concern to local people, however I want to say that we do not believe there to be any wider risk to members of the community.”
“This is a fast-moving and complex investigation, and we’re following a number of positive leads as we work to establish what has happened to Jamie,” she added.
Detectives will not be discussing any further details around the discovery at this stage.
“Jamie’s family are distraught and it is imperative we give them the answers to the questions that they are now asking,” said detective inspector Pressley.
“Anyone who has information that could help us piece together a picture of Jamie’s life and who he had been interacting with should call us immediately.”
If you have any information please contact the enquiry team on 020 8721 4622 quoting ‘Operation Wominghall’.
To remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.